SOCSD Launches B.U.S. Positive Behavior Initiative for Bus Riders

Starkville, August 23, 2024 – The Starkville-Oktibbeha Consolidated School District (SOCSD) has launched an innovative program to promote good behavior among student bus riders. Known as the B.U.S. initiative, it encourages and recognizes students who display remarkable behavior on school buses by observing the following guiding principles: Be responsible, Use respect, and Stay safe.

Positive Behavior, Positive Rewards

The assistant superintendent for federal programs, special education, and preschool, Anna Guntharp, commented on the need for such a program. “We are very excited to begin the B.U.S. positive behavior initiative with our students this school year. Bus transportation is essential for most families, and we want every child to feel safe and valued throughout their journey to and from school. By implementing this reward system, we aim to motivate students to portray their best selves aboard our buses.”

How the Program Works

The initiative is designed to prepare students for their day while ensuring a positive and safe environment on the bus. With the understanding that recognized behaviors are usually repeated ones, the need to acknowledge exemplary behavior becomes apparent. Consequently, during the 2024-2025 academic year, students who exhibit positive behavior on the school buses will receive a B.U.S. “ticket” from the bus driver. The ticket then enters the student into a termly raffle where they stand the chance to win $125 in cash as a reward for their commendable behavior.

Funding and Training

The funding for the rewards comes courtesy of Thomas Stewart, an alumnus parent who runs the Architectonics architecture firm in Starkville. Furthermore, members of the SOCSD Transportation Department and the bus driving staff have been trained in positive behavior management for the successful implementation of the B.U.S. program.

Parent Support

“We hope to garner parental support for the B.U.S. initiative,” Guntharp mentioned. She also stated that the students would bring part of the tickets home to show their parents as a way to involve them more in reinforcing the expectations of the program. It is envisioned that with parental involvement, the students will be more encouraged to maintain excellent behavior while on the buses.

First Raffle Drawing

The first raffle draw for the B.U.S. program is already on the horizon, and it can only be anticipated that the effectiveness of this laudable initiative will be evident in the behavior of the students going forward. Indeed, the role of quality journalism in observing, monitoring, and reporting on this will be crucial.